Although hormone therapy is of interest to many, there are always concerns regarding its impact on the body. Therefore, having accurate knowledge is essential.
What are the adverse effects if one does not take hormones after gender reassignment surgery?
Lack of sex hormones may lead to osteoporosis or fractures. Hence, it is recommended to continue taking hormones even after gender reassignment surgery to maintain bone mass and improve quality of life.
Is it necessary and for how long should one take hormones after transitioning from male to female?
After completing gender reassignment surgery from male to female, one can stop taking male hormone suppressants. However, female hormones should be taken continuously to prevent osteoporosis. Consultation with a doctor is advised to consider hormone dosage reduction or cessation when one reaches the typical menopausal age for women.
Is there a risk of cancer from taking hormones?
Taking hormones does not increase the risk of common cancers such as lung cancer, colon cancer, etc. However, some cancers related to hormone-responsive organs require special attention, such as breast cancer. Studies have shown that the use of certain female hormones may increase the risk of breast cancer, but most of these cases are reported in the female population.
There have been limited studies directly on the transgender female population, so the information remains unclear. Currently, it is advised that transgender individuals undergo breast cancer screening using similar clinical practice guidelines as for cisgender women, considering factors such as age, duration of hormone use, and other risks like a family history of breast cancer.
Prostate cancer reports indicate that transgender women taking female hormones or male hormone suppressants have a reduced risk of developing prostate cancer. However, prostate cancer screening is still recommended for transgender women over the age of 40, similar to that in cisgender men.
Do you need to take hormones for life? At what age should you stop?
Currently, there is no clear research evidence indicating the appropriate age to stop taking hormones. Stopping or reducing hormone dosage in transgender individuals should be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on any existing health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, deep vein thrombosis, or the risk of osteoporosis.
What are the long-term health effects of hormone therapy?
Long-term hormone therapy, whether transitioning from female to male or male to female, may increase blood pressure or certain blood lipid levels. However, the risk of stroke and deep vein thrombosis is more pronounced in older transgender women who have taken female hormones for a long time.
Understand and care for your true self”
Specialist Doctors in Hormone Therapy
Dr. Nida Serichantalergs Endocrinologist Diabetes Thyroid and Endocrine Center Bangkok Hospital
You can click here to make an appointment.
Hospitals Specializing in Hormone Therapy
be YOURSELF services Clinic at Bangkok Hospital is ready to provide hormone therapy care for individuals seeking gender transition, to achieve the desired physical changes. The clinic has experienced specialized doctors and a multidisciplinary team to closely support and care for patients.
